| Gaming has taken root and there are no signs of the | | | | very young ones about the dangers lurking on the |
| popularity abating. Children as well as adults are all | | | | internet. |
| hooked to computer and video gaming in a big way. | | | | 5. Learn all about downloadable mods that alter the |
| And, the internet has added a dash of excitement | | | | content of games. Mods can change the |
| into gaming as players can now not just play online | | | | appropriateness of the game for young players so |
| but compete online. | | | | parents must be vigilant. |
| The gaming world realizes that if they are to sustain | | | | 6. Always invest in video game consoles and |
| a multi-billion dollar business they must care not just | | | | handhelds that have parental controls. This will enable |
| for the gamers but their parents too. The | | | | you to limit the gaming content your children can |
| Entertainment Software Rating Board or ESRB has | | | | access. Using parental controls will ensure that the |
| issued video gaming tips as a guide for parents. The | | | | children only play games that are appropriate to |
| ESRB is the one that tests video games and rates | | | | them. |
| them so that parents can select suitable games for | | | | 7. Know your child's nature and buy games that will |
| children of different age groups. | | | | nurture the child's holistic growth. Games are known |
| 1. Parents must check the ratings and examine the | | | | to have many benefits, us them to your advantage. |
| rating symbol on the front of the package as well as | | | | 8. Know the games your kids play by reading their |
| read the content descriptor at the back when buying | | | | reviews online and joining gaming blogs and forum. |
| a game. The ESRB site has in depth information | | | | Read game reviews and watch game trailers and |
| about games rated by them. | | | | demos. |
| 2. Never depend on advertisements, always talk to | | | | 9. Make time to interact with your children. Play |
| parents and older children to get an holistic view of | | | | games with them and teach them that gaming is not |
| the game you intend to buy. | | | | harmful if played right. Win their confidence so that |
| 3. Be a friend to your child and play the games with | | | | they are open with you and share their fears and |
| him or her. There is nothing like a hands on | | | | joys. |
| experience. | | | | 10. Take the kids to game expos and exhibitions. |
| 4. Beware of online gaming as very often the game | | | | Learn all about the gaming world. Keep one step |
| has unrated components. Online gaming also has | | | | ahead at all times and your kids will be able to play |
| features like chats and exchange of ideas and | | | | games without any problems. |
| information. Parents must teach their kids especially | | | | |